frank Finds: The Power of Practice, Ego and Nonprofits

By Alexandra Booth, frank Social Media Director

Engage the Ego

Self-affirmation Changes Health Behavior

People have unhealthy habits, and they continue to live an unhealthy lifestyle when told that it’s bad for them. Self-affirmation theory explains that people are often defensive about their health behavior and choices to maintain self-integrity. However, studies have found that making people feel good about themselves (self-affirmation) leads many to change their behavior for the better.

How Nonprofits Win

Social Media Effectiveness for Public Engagement: An Example of Small Nonprofits

When small activist nonprofits use social media, they have to take into consideration what audience they want to reach and what action they want them to take. Small nonprofits work to engage different stakeholders on social media to meet three goals: to disseminate information about their causes and organization, to build community and engage and to mobilize actions like donating or volunteering.

How Nonprofits Help Close the Digital Divide

Dozens of nonprofit organizations – like Connected for Good, Close the Gap, and EveryoneOn – are working to bridge the gap between those who do and do not have access to the Internet. Cost, accessibility and a lack of digital literacy are keeping people offline, cost being the biggest of the three. People at EveryoneOn are working on scanning ISPs throughout the country and finding or negotiating deals to bring prices down.

Focus Makes Peferct

Not All Practice Makes Perfect

Researchers are exploring the science of practice to understand how we can maximize our growth in our craft. They argue purposeful practice – thoughtful and focused practice– rather than routine practice can help us dramatically improve.

And What Did You Do Today?

The Inside Story Of How 4 Courageous Reporters Freed More Than 2,000 Slaves

Four reporters discovered a slave island in a remote Indonesian village, where the workers were forced to fish 20 hours a day for little to no pay. They used satellite data to track the fishing orders and eventually proved that fish was ending up in the United States. As a result of their reporting, more than 2,000 captives were set free and the Associated Press won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service.